“‘I Don’t Understand It’ – BBC Pundit Left Baffled by Dyche’s Decision Ahead of Leicester v Everton”
"Andy Reid 'Baffled' by Sean Dyche's Decision to Name Only Eight Substitutes for Everton at Leicester City"
Ahead of a crucial match for the winless Toffees at King Power Stadium, Sean Dyche has named a squad one player short of a full bench, which also includes two goalkeepers.
Former Republic of Ireland player Steven Reid shared his thoughts on BBC Radio 5 Live with Mark Chapman [21 September, 14:14], saying: “What message are you sending when we’re outside of the transfer window and not naming a full bench?
“I don’t understand it. Why not include a young player for the experience? Even if they’re a bit younger and one of your ‘high-potential’ players, they could be an asset for the future. It would be a great opportunity for them.
“I would definitely have included one of those players to fill the bench.”
Sean Dyche leaves Everton bench incomplete at Leicester Reid’s statement reflects the sentiment that this would have been a perfect chance to give a young player some exposure to the first team, which was ultimately overlooked.
While Dyche may have his reasons for naming the squad as he did, Reid’s comment about sending a “message” to the board regarding the lack of squad depth is noteworthy.
Reid also hints at a valid point that including young players in a matchday squad can increase their market value or future selling potential, even if they don’t play.
All debate will be quickly forgotten if Everton can secure a much-needed win — even a draw would break their losing streak and put points on the board.
If there were ever a time to invoke the ‘six-pointer’ cliché in September, it would be for this vital fixture in the East Midlands.
